On the role of computational fluid dynamics in determining hypersonic inlet performance in ground test facilities

Abstract

Measurement of the performance of hypersonic inlets in ground test facilities requires a combination of experimental measurements and analytical inputs. The roles of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in defining ground-test simulation requirements and in complementing direct experimental measurements are discussed for a two-dimensional class of hypersonic scramjet inlet. Typical uncertainties for measurements and analytical inputs are defined and sensitivities are calculated for inlets operating at speeds between Mach 4 and 15. These uncertainties are propagated through an analysis procedure to determine the accuracy of the inlet performance. Recommendations are provided for areas of measurement and analysis improvement that offer the potential to improve the accuracy of the inlet performance determination.